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The DEX-P99RS houses its electronics in a copper-plated chassis that eliminates RF and magnetic signals that can introduce unwanted noise into even the finest audio components. Pioneer designed the circuit paths to be as short and symmetrical as possible, while all internal components are carefully arranged and shielded. All of these steps reduce interference that can diminish sound quality.

Pioneer's Stage 4 flagship receiver

Why run with the herd when you can be leader of the pack? Pioneer's Stage 4 DEX-P99RS isn't just another car CD receiver — it's an audiophile platform of the highest quality, built from the ground up for audio enthusiasts who won't settle for second best. There's no internal amp in the DEX-P99RS — connect the pristine output to external amplifiers when you build your system.

The DEX-P99R is at the heart of Pioneer's Stage 4 lineup

Custom components and uncompromising construction

The DEX-P99RS houses its electronics in a copper-plated chassis that eliminates RF and magnetic signals that can introduce unwanted noise into even the finest audio components. Pioneer designed the circuit paths to be as short and symmetrical as possible, while all internal components are carefully arranged and shielded. All of these steps reduce interference that can diminish sound quality.

The engineers at Pioneer realize that standard "off-the-shelf" parts just won't cut it when you're shooting for reference standard performance. They use custom-designed audiophile-grade capacitors built specifically for the DEX-P99RS, ensuring the highest quality parts and cleanest performance. The receiver's preamp section, which uses the same Linear Technology technology found in high-end home audio systems, receives ample supplies of current from the receiver's dual power supplies, a rarity in car stereo construction.

Cutting-edge digital technology

If digital data isn't translated into the analog domain accurately, your sound will be subtly out of phase, resulting in a loss of precision and the addition of distortion. The DEX-P99RS employs Sound Master Clock Circuitry that guarantees ultra-precise digital-to-analog conversion.

The receiver also uses four digital-to-analog converters (DACs), one each for the preamp outputs, to convert your digital media with the highest possible signal-to-noise ratio and outstanding dynamic range. The 32-bit binary floating-bit digital signal processor provides high-speed sound processing for greater realism than the processing found in other car receivers.

Outstanding tools for sound adjustment

The 31-band equalizer offers independent control over the right and left channels for unparalleled shaping of the acoustic output. You can even set up five different custom memories to handle different types of music or listening situations.

The Auto EQ's supplied microphone samples the sound in your car, then tunes the 31 separate frequency bands to your interior, while balancing the output of all of your speakers independently. It also adjusts the time alignment of your system automatically to compensate for the differences in speaker distance from the driver — all the sound will reach your ears in perfect synchronization.

Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?
In most vehicles, you can use an adapter (not included) to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Pioneer stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the receiver, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. Check the "Accessories" tab for compatible adapters.

iPod note: If you're going to use your iPod with this receiver, be sure to check Product Research for specific iPod model compatibility with this receiver or its optional iPod adapter.

Product Highlights:

General features:

CD receiver/preamp (no built-in amplifier, external amps required)

plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs, including discs loaded with MP3, WMA, and AAC files (will not play Digital Rights-protected music files)

Featured Video:

Reviews

Pioneer Stage 4 DEX-P99RS Reviews

Average Customer Review(s):

(39 Reviews)

Just grab the keys and let the concert begin!

Anthony from San Diego, CA on 2/10/2017

I have this installed in a 2013 Hyundai with a dual battery system install. My front stage consist of a Focal Audio Elite 165KX3 component system.
My front stage is bi-amplified and a drive anywhere is an excellent excuse to get lost within sonic nirvana.
If you like listening to CD's this is an excellent piece of sonic gear. I added a Pioneer Premier 6 disc changer for swapping convenience.

Pros:Phenomenal build quality, exquisite and sexy. This has an insane learning curve and is a dream to own.
I get this RTA'd on the dailies!

Cons:Egg shaped remote could have been designed a little better, my hands are small.

5 of 6 found this helpful

Clean

This has got to be the cleanest sounding head unit I've ever owned as soon as I hooked it up the bass hit harder and lower and the highs became sharp clear and loud it took me about a day to figure out how to tune it in and I still have to refer to the manual for some of the other settings.. If you want the best pre amp signal get this unit

Pros:The network out puts with active hpf and lpf and the equalizer

Cons:Wish this unit was touch screen and had Bluetooth and also it would be nice to be able to change the crossover type

Great SQ head unit

The DEH-P99RS is an excellent top quality CD Tuner with an added 4 way digital crossover with time alignment and dual 31 band equalizers. For those that know how to use its processing features, it is a great unit. If you are not an experienced tuner, either let someone that knows how to tune adjust this deck or buy something else.

Pros:Everything an experienced tuner and sound quality expert needs in one unit.

Cons:The two knobs on the front are somewhat flimsy as compared to the rest of the deck's solid build quality.

It's so good I bought 2 of them.

I bought my first DEX-P99RS used from a giant online auction site last year. It was to spend it's life in a garage-queen SQ car that I occasionally show. I run a 2-way active Focal KRX2 set up-front in that car with Rockford Fosgate T1692 6x9's in the rear. I have 2 x JL Audio 13w6v2's for subs. I have Mosconi AS200.4 amps for the fronts / subs and a Mosconi Gladen One 240.2 for the rears. The DEX-P99RS is the primary source unit / DSP. I have a second head unit (Pioneer AVH-X7500BT) that I use for bluetooth/backup camera/etc. that passes through the DEX-P99RS via an Aux. input.
I was so impressed with the DEX-P99RS in that car that I bought another DEX-P99RS from Crutchfield to install in my daily driver. It is the same system completely except that my daily does not have any rear speakers or the Mosconi Gladen One 240.2.
After tuning with the DEX-P99RS (both manual tuning and AutoEQ/AutoTA), I am just enamored with the DEX-P99RS. It has a near-full tuning suite, and it is completely available to the tuner without need of any external devices (like laptops, pc's, tablets, etc). Everything you need to tune (minus your tuning music or tones) is available via the handheld remote control and display on the unit. The only thing I can think of that would make it better (and this really would only take it from 100% to 105% awesome to me) would be adding some ability to change crossover filter type (Butterworth, Chebyshev, etc.).
The DEX-P99RS is just awesome.

Cons:It's more expensive than a decent double din + external DSP.
You can get a similar experience in AutoEQ and AutoTA with one of Pioneer's lower line double din units (AVH-X1700 - AVH-X5700BHS units). I had an AVH-X5700BHS prior.

10 of 13 found this helpful

Spend the money!

I've been building systems since 1988 and this deck is the best I've ever owned! I started out looking for an 8 channel crossover to go with a new head unit when I came across this one. When I looked at the price of the deck I wanted and the crossover separately, it made more since to spend about $100 more to get both pieces in one unit. Best decision I could have ever made!
After tweaking the EQ for about a week, I found myself in audio heaven. I will be in Nirvana when I swap out the JL Audio speakers for Focal components. EVERYONE who sits in my car tells me that I have the cleanest sounding stereo they've ever heard. Having control over directing the right frequencies to the correct speakers in the same unit is priceless!

Pros:31 channels to tweak the way different genres of music sound.
Audio setting that shapes sound for just the people in the front seats.
Removable head unit for security.

Cons:Doesn't have Bluetooth.
Learning curve for tweaking.

9 of 12 found this helpful

best deck ever

this deck is by far the best deck i ever used . it takes a while to figure out the set up areas but customer service is a big help . this replaced my eclipse 8053 and it made my old deck seem lke it was a factory head unit . I didnt want to spend this much money but it was worth it , im so happy I took the plung . Had to buy the extra remote from Crutchfield because the one that came with it is so darn small ,

Pros:best deck ever , one crossovers were set the cds took on a new life even before setting the eq and time delay

Cons:set up takes a learning curve and remote is hard to use if you have large hands . price

Pioneer Stage 4 Head Unit

It's getting harder to find pre amp only head units these day. That's what brought me to the Pioneer. I was impressed with the build quality and the sound quality was top shelf. You get a ton of customizable settings. If you're concerned only with sound quality this might be the best deck on the market right now.

Cons:It would be nice if the head unit had a digital input and balanced line outputs.

4 of 5 found this helpful

The best since my old Sony CDX-C90 ES from 1999

Shanes from NJ on 11/26/2014

I thought the last 10 + years of of high end head units were pretty much a lost cause since everything has become tailored for iPod quality sound, which as we know isn't nearly as good as complacent disc. This prs 99 is an outstanding piece of engineering and for me to say that means a lot. This is the first time be been this excited about a head unit since the previous Sony CDX-C90 that had its quad Burr Brown 20 bit DAC's. I've installed this unit I my 2011 Honda Element and I'm looking to upgrade the speakers really soon to Focal components. This unit is top notch and will sure be another ledgend in car audio.

Pros:Old school quality with faculty for modern day tech like iPhones and such.

Cons:Would like it to be able to play high resolution audio such as FLAC or ALAC 24/192 kHz files burned to a dvd or play sacd discs.

7 of 9 found this helpful

Pioneer DEX-P99RS

I believe that this is a difficult unit to understand. I took over one year to appriecate the built in quality of this CD player. Oneday i thought I finally had it tuned in and not evan close. I didn't understand that adjustments with the engine off only produce 12.5 to 12.8 volts-14.6 volts when engine is on. the sounds produced are different. didn't realize that all cd's are not recorded the same. Bad recordings are bad-not a thing you can do-if you try and adjust for the bad sound you then take and destroy a good recording. You adjust once again and wonder if you will ever find the Utopia sound that you have paid for. I have the Utopia NO7 Active/Two Milbert Bam 235ab's and one Mosconi 200.4. I have them installed in a 78 ford pickup. Believe me when i say that I have been through heck with this system. One day I'm driving down the road and decide to take the tweets down to 1245 hrz, I had them at 3500-the sound opened up and the recording bloomed to a level never heard-but this was by accident. I have given-up on adjustments that are by the book and went with my ear. I'm an old man. Understand what it is you have and the system I have is truly Utopia. This CD player has enough adjustments that whatever your hearing is, it can provide for it. I was headed to the dump with this system-But I didn't give up. Sound proofing, wires, and anything else plays on the other-weakest point is the strongest. Dual batt.- 200 amp alternator and the list just goes on.

Pros:It can provide the best sound out there. Or it can take and break your spirit.

Cons:Patience, Time and money.

15 of 20 found this helpful

Pioneer CD receiver/preamp/DEX-P99RS

I have been waiting for this type of receiver for ever.The Last time I seen a preamp receiver was in the 80's was a Kenwood cassette receiver it was top of line, Now in the twenty teens we have once again simply the best sound, all I care about is the best sound possible period.

Pros:The best sound Quality in a CD receiver. no bells and whistles, just pure SQ.

Cons:none.

10 of 10 found this helpful

Best stereo money can buy

Expensive but well worth the money. Once I got my system tuned all I can say is... WOW I am impressed to say the least. There is definately a learning curve in getting in and out of menus but after a few days you'll be able to change your setting with ease. The stereo comes with the capabiity to auto tune itselft to your car but any serious audiophile will opt to set it up manually and for this I would recommend Room Eq RTA software as well as a calibrated mic. There is alot of info at DIYmobieaudio specically for this stereo so pleny of help is availble if you choose to tune your car manually. Also make sure you have decent drivers, amps, wiring and clean power or you will be wasting your money and time with this high end stereo. I currently have Focal KRX2 midrivers, hiquophen tweeters, jl audio12W6 sub and jl audio hd amps, with wiring including an alternator upgrade and sound deadening and this stereo sounds great

Pros:Clean pure sound with the versatility to tune your stereo exactly how you want to.

Cons:Price, but hey you're paying for the best in the market.

3 of 3 found this helpful

If you are serious about QUALITY sound ............

This is THE BEST car receiver I have EVER owned!! It is a tuner and 31 Band equalizer in ONE!! My speakers literally came to life when I installed this unit. Simplest install ever, but HIGHLY involved in setting up. The setup is definitely not a discouraging point though. Once you learned you don't forget it. I like how you can adjust the time alignment of each speaker and set the levels for each channel (i.e. LF~RF~LR~RR). This unit separates each speaker into Sub, Low, Mid, and High groups. You MUST have an amplifier in order to use this head unit!! I have had this head unit for a month now and after extensive hours of fine tuning the AUTO adjustments I am literally speechless on how GREAT my system sounds. I only changed the head unit (no amplifier tweaks or speaker upgrades or anything) and my speakers seem like they woke-up from their nap of boredom!! If you enjoy listening to music for sound quality then this is DEFINITELY the unit for you!!!

Great Quality

Out of the box performance. I installed this unit in a 2009 Challenger SRT8 using a McIntosh MC440 6ch amp. Hooked up to the stock speakers with no tuning and still blew me away with sound quality. I currently have a Clarion DRZ9255, Addzest HX-D1, Clarion DRX-9255, Pioneer deh-p880prs, Clarion HX-D10, McIntosh MX-406, and McIntosh Mx5000. All models listed are excellent SQ. pieces and all were hooked up to McIntosh amps when tested. The biggest problem with testing different CD players is using the same amps and speakers when testing so you have a more accurate comparison. I thought I had the best until I heard the Pioneer.

Pros:SQ. Very clean unit looks amazing

Cons:Tuning is a bit complicated. It would be nice if Bluetooth was already installed instead of the $200 add on.

10 of 10 found this helpful

Hard to beat

There is really not much out there that comes close to this head unit. I am someone that is a bit leery about audio manufacturers that tout features without saying much about the efforts and technology used to to make their components sound great. Pioneer has built a deck that is packed with SQ focused technology - 4 24 bit DAC's, custom made capacitors, copper shielding, cd mechanism that is isolated from external vibrations, etc. they have produced a deck that demonstrates a complete focus on sound quality, and built into it features that set it apart from the competition such as ipod connectivity, hd tuner ready, built in crossovers and 31 band eq, time alignment, 2 aux inputs plus a USB input, giving you three different options for expansion. All of this in a single din unit. I was originally in the market for a nakamichi cd700ii. What I found is that Nakamichi's legendary flagship CD player has reliability issues and hard to find support. This Pioneer, with its conveniences and features as well as a Focus on sound quality made it hard to beat. No external crossovers to install. Everything can be controlled and tweaked from the driver's seat. It's an amazing deck, both in features and sound quality. I hated picking Pioneer over Nakamichi, but I am very happy with this deck and am convinced it is the better HU - probably one of the best out there.

Pros:Sound quality and feature set.

Cons:There's a bit of a learning curve figuring out the controls. Nothing too difficult, and once you figure it out, it gets easy. At first it can seem a bit too involved and non-intuitive. Ultimately it's not bad, you just have to get past the initial getting acquainted stage.

5 of 5 found this helpful

Unbelievable!!!!

I got this installed a few weeks ago. I waited to write this because it takes a little while to figure out this unit. I have it in a 2010 Tacoma it still has the factory door speakers but I installes a JL XD700/5 amp and a sealed prefab box with a alpine type R 10. I will warn you that the set up can be very difficult but the great thing is it has an auto tune feature that works extremely well. I have dealt with auto tuning system before like the alpine ones but this Pioneer auto tune is almost spot on!!! The ipod sound is much better than expected. The sound all around is truly amazing and that is with the factory front speakers cant wait to install son really nice components with some soft dome tweeters!!! It is a very pricey unit but I am very happy with the results!!!

Pros:DAC, tuning ability, clean sound

Cons:price and difficult to set up

2 of 2 found this helpful

beyond belief

zech912 from Phoenix, AZ on 6/22/2013

I have had my installs done at the very best shop, with high end Focal and JL components, amps, subs. Because the shop is used to high end (but they do not currently carry Pioneer), they have always been: "ho-hum, it's ready, here are your keys." But when I had this deck installed (again, not even purchased there), they came out to the waiting room and said with a bit of awe: "This is amazing, you have got to come back and hear this." The installers were back there themselves admiring the beautiful audio. If I close my eyes, I can easily imagine I am in the studio itself. Well done Pioneer. As far as the complexity, I would never take on adjusting the crossovers, TA, things like that (but easy for the brilliant installer and those who understand how to do so), but the EQ and other settings are all well within the novice's ability, and fun to set.

Cons:The color of the dial lighting is adjustable, but not the center text/ sound level display. The sound level display is something I have missed for years, it is absolutely awesome that this has it, and the white is great, so I am going to extreme effort to find a con, but here it is: It would be great if the sound level display was also adjustable.

11 of 11 found this helpful

Best Radio out there!

I have two of these decks and they are awesome! I have never had such a deck that puts out the quality of sound the Dex-P99rs does. great sound, great enhancement to my ipod and sounds even better with a CD.

Pros:Competition radio for sure!

Cons:Took me a while to fully understand the full potential this deck has to offer. But other than the patients of studing the manuel it's worth every penny!

5 of 6 found this helpful

Every Note is perfect

Ralph from NJ on 4/8/2013

Fantastic ! I installed the ultimate STAGE 4 system, for about $7,000+ and it sounds like it was worth every penny. I can hear music the way it was meant to be heard , the way engineers recorded it. I combined the Head unit with Pioneer stage 4 amps & speakers and they sound amazing.

Pros:TA - time alignment .
Auto Equalization .
Control over the configuration of all the crossovers & slopes from the head unit is great
Control of 4 seperate preamp outs is great for fine tuning the system.

Cons:Cost is very high but worht it.

4 of 4 found this helpful

Best ever

Best SQ deck ever! But this deck is not for beginners. Very advanced tuning knowledge is required or your wasting your money. Wish they made this deck in a dbl din touch screen version. Would make tuning much easier, Please pioneer read this.

Pros:Beautiful sound quality. Great simple classy look.

Cons:Small screen for tuning.

12 of 12 found this helpful

Mazdaspeed3 2012 Pioneer Stage 4 DEX-P99RS

Pros:This unit has so many sound adjustments for down right pure pleasure!!! Now due to all the setting make sure you have some time for sound adjusting with the unit!
It's simple looking and that's what I needed for the car. Just ENDLESS SOUND

Cons:Not enough hours in the day to sit in the car and listen to whatever you prefer with adding a 32gb flash drive.

4 of 5 found this helpful

Truly AMAZING!!!

Pure joy...If you are serious about music, you NEED to get this deck. Upgraded from the DEX-880PRS, there is a HUGE difference. SQ from this deck is simply amazing. I don't want to leave the car, I sometimes will just sit in the car after getting home just to bask in the amazing sound this deck delivers. I was really hesitant on the upgrade, kept asking myself, "could there be that much of a difference?" "Is it worth the money?" An astounding YES, YES, YES!!! This deck even makes your iPod sound good, huh...

Pros:Total system control! Tweak-ability. SQ

Cons:Price

13 of 14 found this helpful

Musical tranquilizer

To be the owner of one of these Head Units, i am extremely proud, i cannot think of another Product in recent time that i have spent so much of my time with, my commute to work , even in extreme traffic jam on I-95 in Miami is heavenly, prior to purchasing this unit, i decided to invest in high quality Speaker Cable and Interconnects, this Unit is currently connected to (2) 5 Meter length of Audioquest Columbia Interconnects and Audioquest Type 4 Speaker Cables, my aim was to have maximum transfer of the Signals to the Amps. i would recommend this Unit to any one who is looking for an heavenly time in their vehicle

There can be only one

JohnV from Hampton VA on 3/15/2012

If you value sound or wounder what is missing in your current SQ system this is the HU for you. The price is ridiculously low for the capabilities this product brings to the table. Even if you choose to never use the Auto-tune, EQ, TA, or crossover point/ slope the HU is a great CD player and easily the the best sounding radio I have EVER heard in a car. There can be only one best available HU and this is it

Pros:attractive understated appearance, best sounding HU for sale in USA, tremendous user control, auto EQ actually works well, silent operation, the radio sounds excellent with the best RECEPTION I have gotten in over 2 decades! The biggest Pro is the Crutchfield service

Cons:the menus are complicated so it is not that easy to use all those audio features even with the users manual, knobs are small and slick

13 of 13 found this helpful

one of a kind

once you get on to all tuning capabilities you have fun trying different setups. This is a machine for all tunes. I tried to get the only person that i kn ew of to tune it for me , im really glad he was too busy cause with enough patience ive almost mastered this unit and now its fun If you dont have this unit you only have an average unit . Most impressive piece ive ever bought and ive spent a lot on car audio All others are second to this one !!!

Pros:SO MANY WAYS TO SET UP AND TUNE ALL FREQUENCIES

Cons:TAKES PATIENCE IF YOUR AVERAGE USER

7 of 8 found this helpful

Pretty amazing

What an awesome piece. Its fairly simplistic, no frills appearance is merely a front for one of the most versatile pieces of equipment Ive ever seen. The complete adjustability is mind blowing. Theres nothing else you will ever need. The sound quality is top notch to say the least. As someone else said... If your serious about your sounds, you need this piece.

Pros:everything inside the box

Cons:

7 of 7 found this helpful

Review Revisited

MBluAgain from Fort Lauderdale on 1/5/2012

I needed to update the previous review. I called support about the issue with the blanking display and I was immediately sent a new unit as an advance replacement for the wonky unit.
If you are considering a purchase of this, the King Kong of all head units, you would be silly to buy it elsewhere.
Nice Job.

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25 of 26 found this helpful

Sound and Features-Great, Build Quality-?

I purchased this unit in March 2011. All the reviews and the hype are true. This thing is the Bee's Knees. Complaints about the remote are silly and in my case the remote is the only way to control the head unit. That is because when I touch the face-plate controls on the right side of the unit, it blacks out and locks up.
I can't control anything including turning it off, not with the remote or the wheel controls. I have to stop the car, turn the car off and restart the system.
It started as an occasional glitch and is now an every touch occurrence.
I thought that there might be some sort of coverage since it was a signature product, but no information remains about the signature program, so I don't know.

Pros:Sound and Versatility

Cons:Quality

24 of 41 found this helpful

Porsche 911 (993) P99RS Understated Elegance

The HiFi option to my MY98 Porsche 911(993) needed an upgrade to present day car audio HiFi offerings. When researching the best of the best the DEX P99RS head unit came highly recomended... by even its competitors no less fancy that. The elegant asthetic of the P99RS supports the 911s interior and the tier one audio presentation matches the hi performance of the car itself. A couple of PRS- A900 amplifiers rounds out the new HiFi system.

Pros:Audio performance, understated asthetic, DSP filtering, 24/96 DAC, display color choices, 4 channel output, did I mention audio performance.
I wanted the best of the best... and thank Gawd the best is understated asthetically... Fits the 993 Porsche dash like it was OEM.

Cons:Not enough understanding of the P99RS functionality at this time. Not one to duck bit a product.

20 of 23 found this helpful

Simply amazing

I ordered this unit for my Dodge Ram 3500 and even though I thought I had a good sounding system already, this completely represents what music is all about. Music has a complete different sound, you will hear tones from instruments you've been missing. If you are looking to hear music the way it is supposed to be heard then you are looking at the right unit. I have been an audio junkie for greater of 17 years and have never heard anything like this. Ever.
Simply Amazing.

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27 of 29 found this helpful

Excellent. If you're serious, you need this.

Simply put, this is an absolutely excellent receiver. If you're serious in to sound quality and car audio, this is the receiver for you. Combine excellent tuning/processing with an audiophile quality unit and you have a winner. I was never a Pioneer guy before buying this unit, but when this hit the United States, I absolutely could not resist. I bought it the first day that Crutchfield got them in stock a while back. Build quality, sound quality, etc are all top notch. Sound stage is wide and very detailed. Some other great bonuses of this unit are the fact that it has USB input and works great with an external hard drive (lossless files via .WAV are supported as well), color of button illumination can be changed (which is important for me to keep a stealth integration), OEM steering wheel support, and more.
After much tuning, its sounds absolutely fantastic. The time-alignment and very adjustable crossover network are worth it alone. Dual 31band EQ just adds to the awesomeness. Only thing I was not crazy about was the Auto TA/EQ/X-OVER results. Doing it by self yielded MUCH better results.

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36 of 37 found this helpful

world class

instalher from chilliwack b.c. on 11/23/2010

wonderful deck, easy to use and looks great in most dashes... the sound quality of this deck beats my old denford hands down. also feature for feature nothing comes close for the price.. i have a top 3 iasca car in the world and use this deck, which is why i place so high.. the remote is very intuitive and easy to use and can work from almost anyplace in the car.. my one grip is at night you cant see the buttons on the remote.. they should lite up and the carry case is cheap junk.. for the money i would expect only the best. if you can live with these tiny problems and have some money buy this deck!!

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20 of 20 found this helpful

Phenomenal Receiver

Fantastic Receiver. The Autotuning capabilities (in regard to positioning & equalizing) can make anyone's stereo sound like they know what they're doing.
If you have the $ (it's expensive!), this should definitely be high on your list. If you get a chance to listen to one -- go for it! You'll be glad you did.

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7 of 8 found this helpful

Pioneer does it again

JG from ND, USA on 10/27/2010

I have used many Pioneer decks in several different vehicles and have yet to be disappointed. This deck in particular is nearly perfect in most ways. I would recommend it to anyone with moderate or greater knowledge of the car audio world. Tuning is pretty straightforward and sound is excellent once tuning is completed. If you are a beginner, you may want to do your homework before purchasing, otherwise, for all you audiophiles out there, this deck is where its at. Kudos Pioneer and Crutchfield for great products and service.

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7 of 7 found this helpful

Pioneer Stage 4 DEX-P99RS

I have been a loyal Pioneer buyer for over 15 years and have yet to be dissapointed, from my first $500 car- to now customs that I have been fortunate enough to be able to build for people, I have always been able to depend on Pioneer electronics, this dex-p99rs is an awesome reciever, skillfully designed, with symetrical modest and almost undercover styling, plus amazing audiophile sound and adjustability. I would have paid twice retail just to say I installed one of these(dont get any crazy ideas Crutchfield ) Great job Pioneer! I am forever jealous of your mad skillz...

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12 of 14 found this helpful

The best there is

Bong from Texas on 4/2/2010

Pioneer did great with this HU. independent 31 band EQ, indedependent crossover and most of all, a great looking radio. installed in my Honda Civic paired with USamps tube amps and it sounds fantastic. kudos to pioneer for making this HU affordable.. to all the car audio enthusiasts out there, you will miss half of your life if you don't get this......happy listening..

L/R Symmetric PCB: The Reference-Series
DEX-P99RS's entire circuit board is painstakingly designed for
utmost sound quality. Circuit trace path lengths are equalized
and kept as short as possible, and components are carefully laid
out and shielded to prevent RF noise or interference.

L/R Independent High-Volt Volume Circuit: The DEX-P99RS features a
custom-made electric volume driven by a dual-sided power supply (rarely found in
a head unit), which provides overwhelming dynamic range and high S/N
(Signal-to-Noise) ratio.

24-Bit AKM DACs: The
Pioneer Reference-Series DEX-P99RS uses four 24-bit AKM DACs (one for each
preamp output: high, mid, low, and sub). These four 24-bit AKM DACs offer a
115dB S/N ratio with a high-durability to jitter, and superior dynamic range and
quietness.

4 Pair of 5.0-Volt Preamp Outputs With DSP Control:
The Pioneer DEX-P99RS features four pairs of 5.0-volt preamp outputs (High, Mid,
Low, Sub), along with a 4-way network DSP. This allows you to create a 4-way
multi-amp, multi-speaker system with separate speakers for reproduction of high,
middle, low, and ultra-low frequencies (bands), each driven by a dedicated
amplifier (sold separately). The 4-Way Network DSP lets you divide the audio
signal into different frequency bands, and then reproduce each of them through
the units corresponding preamp outputs. You can then make precise adjustments to
the reproduced frequency band (with a low-pass filter and high-pass filter),
level, phase, and other parameters to match the characteristics of each pair of preamp outputs.

Frequency Range: You can adjust the HPF (high-pass filter) and
LPF (low-pass filter) cut-of frequency to set the reproduced frequency range
for each pair of preamp outputs. The HPF cuts frequencies (low) below the
set frequency, letting only high frequencies to pass through. The LPF cuts
frequencies (high) above the set frequency, letting only low frequencies to
pass through. You can make the following HPF and LPF adjustments:

Phase: You can switch phase (normal/reverse) for each preamp
channel output signal. This will improve the continuity of sound between
speakers.

Level: The difference in reproduced levels between connected
speakers can be corrected by adjusting the level of each select frequency
band.

High-LPF, High HPF, Mid-LPF, Mid-HPF: 0 dB to -24 dB

Low-LPF, Low-HPF, SW-LPF, SW-HPF: 6 dB to -24 dB

Mute: You can mute each preamp output channel individually. When
an output channel is muted, no sound is outputted to the connected speaker.

Auto EQ and TA: Auto EQ uses the included microphone to monitor and analyze acoustics,
then automatically fine-tunes all frequency bandwidths and front and rear
speaker digital parametric equalization. Auto TA uses this same microphone to
automatically adjust for distance between each speaker and the listening
position. This entire process occurs in 543
seamless steps in just about 5 minutes to tailor specific musical and acoustic
characteristics to your vehicle.

Position Adjustments: The DEX-P99RS offers the following
position controls to accurately reproduce music in your vehicle:

Balance Adjustment: You can select a balance setting that
provides an ideal listening environment in all occupied seats.

Position Selector: The Position Selector function lets you
automatically adjust the speakers' output levels and inserts a delay time to
match the number and position of occupied seats. You can choose Driver seat,
Passenger seat, or Front seat.

Time Alignment: The Time Alignment function lets you adjust the
distance between each speaker and the listening position, so that sound from
all speakers reaches the driver's ears in perfect sync. Time Alignment can
be set manually (custom), automatically (Auto TA), or to a default (initial)
setting.

Loudness: The Loudness function compensates for deficiencies in the
low and high sound ranges at low volume levels.

Digital Attenuator: You can use the digital attenuator function to
reduce distortion from CD or other sources recorded at higher volumes.

Source Level Adjustment (SLA): SLA lets you adjust the volume
level of each source to prevent radical changes in volume when switching between
sources.

Disc Playback

MP3/WMA/WAV Playback: This unit can play MP3, WMA and WAV
files recorded on CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2,
Joliet, and Romeo formats. MP3 files with a bit rate from 8-320 kbps, WMA files
with a constant bit rate from 48-320 kbps, and WMA files with a variable bit
rate from 48-384 kbps are supported. The unit is compatible with ID3 Tags and
will display artist, folder, file, and album name, plus comments. Up to 8
directories, 99 folders and 999 files per disc are recognized by this unit.

AAC Decoding:This unit will playback AAC files encoded by
iTunes recorded onto CDs, however files purchased from the iTunes Music Store
(.m4a file extension) are not compatible. Tracks recorded at transmission rates
of 16-320 kbps are playable on this unit.

Note: When playing compressed audio, there is no sound during
fast-forward or reverse.

File Name List: The
File Name List feature displays a list
of MP3/WMA/AAC folders and tracks on a loaded CD or connected USB device, so you can
easily access your music. Track Title List will also display the list of track titles
on a CD Text disc.

Disc Titles: You can input CD titles and display them on the
heaudnit's LCD display. The next time you insert a CD for which you have entered
a title, the title of the CD is displayed. You can use the disc title input
feature to store up to 48 CD titles in the unit. Each title can be up to 10
characters long.

Installation Angle: Optimum CD playback performance is obtained when the unit is
installed at an angle of less than 60-degrees.

Aux/USB/iPod Connection

Auxiliary Input: The DEX-P99RS is equipped with a front
panel 2.5mm stereo minijack auxiliary input (located on bottom of front-panel)
for connecting external components, such as a portable MP3 player). AUX must be
turned on in the setup menu in order to be selected as a source.

USB Input: The unit's
rear-panel USB type-A input (attached via 8" pigtail) and the included 59" USB
cable allow you to connect a USB portable audio player
or USB flash memory that is USB Mass Storage Class compliant. This unit can play
MP3, WMA, AAC, and/or WAV files stored on a USB Mass Storage device in FAT16 or FAT32
file system formats. MP3 files with a bit rate from 8-320 kbps, AAC files with a
bit rate of 16-320 kbps, WMA files with a
constant bit rate from 48-320 kbps, and WMA files with a variable bit rate from
48-384 kbps are supported. The unit is compatible with ID3 Tags and will
display artist, folder, file, and album name, plus comments. Up to 8
directories, 500 folders, and 15000 files per USB device are recognized by this
unit.

Note: USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will
be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port and the vehicle's
ignition switch is set to ACC or on.

iPod Interface: The DEX-P99RS can
control and playback songs from select iPods/iPhones with a
standard Dock Connector. You can connect your iPod/iPhone using the unit's rear-panel
USB input, the supplied 59" USB cable, and the included 23" USB/iPod dock cable
(or the USB/iPod dock cable that came with your iPod/iPhone). The head unit's USB
port provides a direct digital bit connection to your iPod/iPhone to the unit's
DSP and DAC for high-quality sound. When connected via USB, you can choose to control
the iPod from the head unit or the iPod itself. You can perform
multiple search functions, including playlist, genre, artist, or album searches.
You can also select random and repeat functions for a certain song, all songs,
or specific folders. The head unit will also display your iPod's music file
information, including Play Time, Song Title, Artist Name, and Album Title. The
unit also offers Link Search, which searches for other songs of the currently
selected artist, album, or genre. While connected and the ignition switch is set to ACC or ON, the USB connection
will power and charge your iPod. The Pioneer DEX-P99RS is "Made for iPod/iPhone"
compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model functions (as of
6/24/2014):

Apple Device

Generation

Tested Version

Media Type

Control Type

Display Type

Charge

Audio

Video

Head Unit

iPod/iPhone

Artist/Song Text

Track Info

iPhone

2G

3.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3G

4.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3GS

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4S

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5C

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5S

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

touch

1st

2.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

2nd

4.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3rd

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4th

6.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5th

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

nano

1st

1.3.1

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

2nd

1.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3rd

1.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4th

1.0.4

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5th

1.0.2

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

6th

1.1 PC

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

7th

1.2

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

classic

80GB

1.1.2

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

120GB

2.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

160GB

2.0.4

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

video

5th

1.3

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

iPad

1

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

2

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

3

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

4

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

mini

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

air

7.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change
functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may
need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If
this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is
available.

IP-Bus Auxiliary Input: You can connect an additional auxiliary component by
connecting an IP-Bus/RCA connector. The optional Pioneer CD-RB10 (130CDRB10,
sold separately) lets you connect an additional auxiliary component via
the IP-Bus connector on the back of the head unit. The 10-character name of the
connected auxiliary component can be entered into memory, and will appear as you
cycle through the sources.

BSM (Best Stations Memory): BSM lets you automatically store
the six strongest stations under preset buttons 1-6 of the currently tuned band.
The tuner has 3 FM banks and 1 AM bank. You can store 6 presets for each bank
giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM presets.

Local Tuning: Local seek tuning lets you tune in only those
radio stations with sufficiently strong signals for good reception. There are 4
level of sensitivity for FM and two levels for AM. The higher settings allow
reception of only the strongest stations, while lower settings let you receive
progressively weaker stations.

Display Features

Motorized Face: The Pioneer
Reference-Series DEX-P99RS features a motorized face which electronically
slides-down, with the press of a button, to insert and eject a disc.

Detachable Face Security: This unit features Detachable Face
Security. If the front panel is not detached from the head unit within five
seconds of turning off the ignition, a warning tone will sound. The warning tone
can be turned off in the menu, if desired. A hard-plastic face case is provide
to protect the front-panel when detached.

OEL Display: The Pioneer DEX-P99RS features
a white Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) dot matrix display which is easier to see
in most lighting conditions. You can easily view file and folder lists from your MP3, WMA, and CD
Text-encoded discs, radio presets, or data from your iPod, and XM Radio. The brightness of the display can be set between 0 and 15.

Multi-Language Display: For your convenience, this unit is equipped
with a multiple language display. You can select the language which is best
suited to your first language - English, French, or Spanish.

Adjustable Illumination: You can select the illumination for the
head unit's front-panel controls. You can choose between White, Red, Amber,
Green, and Blue. You can also adjust the brightness of each color. In addition,
you can create a custom illumination color by adjusting the level of three
primary colors (Red, Green, Blue). You can even set the unit's button
illumination to only turn on when you turn your vehicle's headlights on (using
the radio's illumination wire).

Note: The head unit's OEL display will remain white even if button
illumination is adjusted.

Entertainment Displays: You can enjoy entertainment displays
while listening to each sound source. You can choose from the following: Basic
Display, Spectrum Analyzer 1/2, Level Meter, or Display Off.

Ever Scroll: When the Ever Scroll feature is set to On,
recorded text information scrolls continuously on the display. It will
auto-scroll up to 64 characters. Set this feature to Off if you prefer the
information to scroll only once.

Reverse Mode: If you don't perform an operation within approximately 30
seconds, screen indications start to reverse, and then continue reversing every
10 seconds.

Illumination Dimmer: To prevent the display from being too
bright at night, the display is automatically dimmed when the car's headlights
are turned on. You can turn the dimmer function On or Off. The orange/white
illumination wire must be connected to the vehicle's headlight circuit in order
for this feature to work.

Display Illumination/Clock Display:When the Clock Display
has been turned on, pressing and holding the Source button turns off audio
output, but the clock display remains on. When the Clock Display has been turned
off, pressing and holding the source button turns the unit off completely. Even
if you have turned the radio completely off you can view the clock display by
pressing the clock/display button. The clock will then remain On until you turn it back
Off. When the unit is On you can select between the clock display or the audio
track/tuner display.

Remote Control

Wireless Remote Control: The DEX-P99RS comes with an IR wireless remote
control. The remote allows you to control the volume, switch between
sources, pause the CD, change the display, and adjust the audio. The mute
button allows you to quickly lower the volume by about 90% ( function that
cannot be performed from the front panel). The remote comes with a dash-mount
and steering-wheel mount for added convenience.

Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The head unit features
an OEM steering wheel remote control input on the rear of the unit that lets you
keep your vehicle's factory steering wheel remote controls when used with an
optional
steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately).

Note: Please enter your vehicle information to confirm
compatibility.

Our Product Research Team

At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team. They verify what’s in the box, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices.

Customer Q&A

Crutchfield askedWhy did you buy this?

I had owned this head unit before, and it was by far the highest quality I had ever used. I'm installing a new system in my new car, and I knew this head unit was the only one I needed![ Elias Jul 14, 2016 ]

10 questions already asked

Not sure , but for sure you can skip tracks thru the radio and the remote[ CARMELLO Sep 18, 2017 ]

Hey Greg. Yes you can control your phone from this unit. Has bluetooth as well as phone input. Youll need to connect phone to unit using btooth with an adapter. Model cd-btb200. Probably available through cruthfield. It enables hands free phone operation. If youll download the manual for the unit it will explain how it functions. Btw this is the best unit ive ever heard! Hope this helps.[ MICHAEL Sep 18, 2017 ]

You definitely don't need an outboard eq with this unit. It took me a couple of weeks to figure out the settings on this thing but once i did this thing is incredible! Has 5 different eq memories so youll never need more control than this gives you. Big money but its a badass unit.[ MICHAEL Sep 18, 2017 ]

While you can use a pair of the DEX-P99RS's pre-amp outputs to provide signal to an external EQ, the stereo already has an elaborate 31 band digital EQ and audio adjustments built-in (automatic time alignment, crossovers, phase, level, etc.) so, using any external EQ would be a little redundant.[ Ryan May 31, 2017 ] Staff

Im not sure what Tidal is but you can play music three ways. Auxillary jack, usb, or CD. I have not hooked it up yet.[ Cyrus Apr 29, 2017 ]

It doesn't have built-in bluetooth, but bluetooth can be added with the Pioneer CD-BTB200 Bluetooth Wireless Adapter.[ Forrest Apr 28, 2017 ]

Unless you plug it in via usb![ Scott Apr 28, 2017 ]

No, you need the Bluetooth adapter.[ Scott Apr 28, 2017 ]

If you use an iPhone you can run digital sound out of the iPhone into the P99's USB input by using a lightening to USB cable. The P99 will display the track info from the iPhone. If your using an android phone you can use a Pioneer CD-BTB200 BT adapter that plugs into the blue IP Bus port on the back of the P99 to stream BT to the P99. There are other 3-rd party IP Bus to BT adapters sold on amazon and ebay too.[ Chuck Apr 28, 2017 ]

It depends on a few things:
1. What type of music do you listen to? Country, jazz, classical , oldies work well with a sealed enclosure, Hip hop, rap, and techno work well with ported enclosures.
2. How much bass do you want? enough to blend in well with the mid bass, mids, and tweeters, or enough to break the windshield?
3. How much space in your vehicle are you willing to give up for a sub enclosure? Are you only willing to give up enough space for one sub or for two or more? With your top level equipment list, I would guess you are looking for a sub and enclosure that will blend in well with the rest of the equipment and be able to play a wide range of music accurately. I would go with at least one 10" or 12" sub in a sealed enclosure built to the manufacture's specs and from a well respected brand like JL Audio, Focal, and others. The 500 watts from the Alpine amp will be a good match for a single sub. (I use the PDX-F6 and M12 in my system and the PDX amps are incredible quality for the price.)
[ Chuck Sep 19, 2016 ]

Tony are you talking bass? If so look at JL Audio W3 or a W7 Crutchfield can help you with this. I would go with a W7. If you are speaking midbass I would go with JL Audio ZR Midbass 8 inch. Love my P99RS>
[ john Sep 19, 2016 ]

I'm using a JL W6V3 12". It's rated at 600 watts, and I'll be using 500 watts on it and it will sound beautiful/ Crossed over at about 100hz. I ran a JL 10W7 with the same 500 watt JL HD 900/5 amp and it was plenty of power for it. The 12W6 takes a little less power than the 10W7 so I know it will be just right.[ Scott Sep 19, 2016 ]

The p99 support apple devices only, and ull have to buy a special cable for that. Anyhow thats the only way to play flac as the p99 doesn't support it[ ROEE Feb 17, 2016 ]

If it has a usb input, and i am pretty sure it does but the specs should say, then YES to the first question. And BTW, I think USB for android and USB for apple are the same but they are different from the new USB-C standard. To the second question, the answer is YES, as I play my Hi-Res files from my handheld AK iRiver android player. But I had to get a cord that fits into the SMALLER front plug. It is NOT 3.5mm (or whatever the typical size is. Check the size of that front or player input and get a chord that has 3.5 on one end and the smaller jack on the other. I found one on the web. Write again if more questions.[ Jason Feb 13, 2016 ]

Or just plug your iPhone directly into the jack on the front but you will need a smaller input male plug.[ Jason Feb 13, 2016 ]

I don't use an iPhone but when I plug my iPod Classic into the USB port, the head unit becomes the "controller" for the iPod. If you were to use the standard "aux" input from your iPhone, then it'll work as normal and play your apps through the car .[ Eric Feb 06, 2015 ]

I do not use my P99RS for iPhone apps. I use it 99% with cds. Make the move you will find Midwoofer in your system!! Love it wished I would have bought one long ago.[ john Jan 30, 2015 ]

Yes you definitely can run gen 5 ipod touch through this unit. Use lightning cable that came with ipod and plug into usb in back of unit. Thats my main listening source and it sounds great through this unit! One tip i can give you is to power up your ipod before you turn on head unit. If you dont youll get a no device message on head unit display.[ MICHAEL Sep 18, 2017 ]

I don't see why not it all depends how you want to run it. There's a small AUX in the front of the CD player that you can access by holding down the eject button for 5 seconds. you could also purchase the Pioneer CD BTB-200 Bluetooth adapter. I'm not aware of any software updates you could download. I never had tried connecting a 5th gen iPod but I can say I've tried others through the USB connection and it worked fine. The newer year model DEXP99RS is the same as the original. The only CD player that I found that was more superior than the DEXP99RS was the Pioneer ODR Series. I personally have a Pioneer AVH-X7500BT Navigation mounted above my DEXP99RS so I didn't have to purchase the Bluetooth adapter. Typically if you can afford a DEXP99RS getting the screen for that price is a steal. To me it was worth getting the Bluetooth and Navigation in a bundle however if you want Navigation you would need to purchase the Pioneer AVI-U260. I hope I was able to help. Even if it doesn't work perhaps trying some of the things I've said should get you where you need to be.[ CHRISTOPHER Jan 21, 2015 ]

Yes I belive the 5th gen will work with no issues. I would use the cable that came with it. All p99rs are the same and there are no updates for these models.[ JASON E Jan 20, 2015 ]

I have put the newest iPhone and no problems so your 5th gen should be fine.[ alexander Jan 20, 2015 ]

Hi, PeterIt is my understanding after talking to my sound guy, that it will work with the use of the USB end which should play it regardless of the end tips as long as the USB is not damaged.[ MARCUS K Jan 20, 2015 ]

I have no idea, but if you contact Pioneer directly, they should be able to help you out.[ JUSTIN E Jan 20, 2015 ]

If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.[ Jeff Dec 15, 2014 ] Staff

You have crossover for 4 pairs of speakers. I ran 6 channel for 3 tweets mids and bass. I ran a miono sub amp for sub. I used Zapco. Of common brands Id buy JL Ausio amps.[ JEFFERY Jul 17, 2014 ]

This head unit shouldn't be ran with less than two amplifiers, preferably four though.If using two amplifiers you will need to connect the MID output to your front speakers, your LOW output to your rear speakers, and SUB output to your subwoofer.This can be accomplished by running one 4 channel amp for your component speakers and one single channel (Mono) amp for your sub.The high channel will need to be disabled in the HU setup options.Like this...High -> Disabled.
Mid -> Front L/R on 4-channel amp.
Low -> Rear L/R on 4-channel amp.
Sub-> L/R on 1-channel amp.There are no best amps, it's personal preference when it comes to sound reproduction. Any major manufacturer will work with this HU.I will warn your though, this HU is very high end and in-depth. Setup will take several hours of work to get everything sounding the way you want it after install.[ William Jul 15, 2014 ]

Based on what you've asked, I don't think you need to go as far as buying a Pioneer P99, stick with a deh-80prs for less money, less complexity. At your level of experience, you won't know the difference. Find yourself a JL audio 300/4v2 class A/B amp and have a reputable shop do the install.[ JUSTIN E Jul 15, 2014 ]

You would need 1 four channel amp or 2 two channel amps for four speakers to get the FULL fuctionality of the p99. Low voltage RCA wiring is needed.[ Adam Jul 15, 2014 ]

I'm sorry I purchased the head unit and let a stereo shop do the work so I wouldn't know which route to say go. I have it with a PDX 5 Alpine amp on a Harley Davidson bagger with 2 sets of 6x9's. Sounds amazing and love it but setting it can be a challenge if you're not a technical person.[ MARCUS K Jul 15, 2014 ]